The inferred mean value of \(\eta \) (20 keV) \(\simeq 5 \times 10^{-3}\)  electrons s\(^{-1}\)  per ambient electron is broadly consistent with the values reported for a series of extended-loop-source events by [1]}. It should also be noted that the value of the specific acceleration rate for Event #4 (the “midnight flare” of 2002 April 15) has been determined independently by [2]}, who used a continuity equation analysis of the variation of the electron flux spectrum throughout the source. The specific acceleration rate \(\eta (20\)  keV)\(=11 \times 10^{-3}\)  s\(^{-1}\)  obtained by [2]} is consistent with the value of \(7.3 \times 10^{-3}\)  s\(^{-1}\)  deduced here.
